State lawmaker says he was threatened with gun over parking spot in Park Circle

NORTH CHARLESTON, S.C. (WCBD)- State Rep. JA Moore (D-Charleston) says he was involved in a “deeply unsettling incident” in North Charleston on Tuesday in which he was threatened with a gun during a parking dispute.

The incident happened near E. Montague Avenue and Ohear Avenue around 1 p.m., according to the North Charleston Police Department.

Moore reportedly told police that he was pulling into a parking spot to pick up his daughter from school when a vehicle approached and took the spot.

He said the driver became hostile when confronted and “went to his vehicle and brandished a handgun and pointed it at [Moore]” before fleeing to a nearby bar, according to a report.

The report further states that officers spoke with the suspect — described as a 66-year-old white male — who initially denied having an altercation. He later admitted to engaging in a verbal argument but denied pointing a gun.

Moore said in a statement Tuesday afternoon that the incident left him “profoundly concerned” for his family’s safety and the community.

“My thoughts immediately went to my daughter and how different this day could have been,” he said. “I was there to pick her up from her first day of school — a day that should have been filled with excitement and pride, not fear. The safety of our children and our community is of utmost importance.”

He added that he was grateful for the police department’s quick response and urged transparency throughout the investigation.

“First and foremost, I want to thank the officers who responded to this terrifying incident,” Moore said. “Their quick action is appreciated, and it’s a reminder of the difficult and dangerous situations they face every day in keeping our community safe.”

Moore, who represents District 15 in the South Carolina House, has long advocated for stricter gun control measures to combat gun violence — an issue that has touched him personally. His sister was one of nine Black parishioners killed by a white supremacist in a 2015 shooting at Mother Emanuel AME Church in Charleston.

He said Tuesday’s incident serves as a “stark reminder” of the work still to be done.

“We must come together to ensure that every family feels safe in their homes and in their community,” Moore said. “I remain dedicated to his cause, now more than ever.”

It was not immediately clear whether an arrest was made.

This story is developing. Count on 2 for updates.